Dutchmen First

First-generation students in years 1, 2, 3 or 4 are eligible for the Dutchmen First program. A first-generation college student is a student whose parent(s)/legal guardian(s) have not completed a bachelor’s degree.

*Please note that you are still considered a first-generation student even if you have a sibling(s) who earned a degree(s).

Program Summary

Eligible first-generation students participating in the Dutchmen First programs and workshops will receive a $500 scholarship per year.

Requirements

• Maintain good academic and financial standing.
• Participate in / Complete 100% of the Dutchmen First workshops each semester.
  • Note: Additional workshop options are available for schedule conflicts (work schedule, athletics, extracurricular activities)
• Participate in on 1:1 or small group meeting with an Academic Success Coach.  1:1 meetings are available at the request of the student.
• Participation will be tracked on Canvas.  Attendance and short reflections are considered participation.
• Students are eligible for participation in years 1, 2, 3 and 4 of enrollment at LVC

• Dutchmen First will offer monthly workshops on a variety of topics that are strategically timed to ensure students receive continued support throughout the semester. Additionally, each cohort will have programming specifically tailored to their academic progress.
• A Financial Literacy Workshop is offered to inform students on constructing a budget, creating savings while on a tight budget, and the financial habits of successful people.
• In addition to the informative workshops, de-stress activities and social drop-ins will be held throughout the semester to build a sense of community.
• Service and volunteer opportunities are planned for each semester.  In addition, students can give back to local schools, no-profit organizations, and neighborhood communities.
• Providing resources, education and support for first-generation students to develop healthy and productive habits.
• A $500 scholarship can be earned in years 1, 2 and 3 for active engagement in the program.
• 4th year students have the opportunity to serve in the role of a Dutchmen First Mentor. 4th year Mentors will receive a Dutchmen First pin for graduation.

• Develop a support network and resources to assist in a smooth transition to college and look to build a path to continued success.
• Dutchmen First workshops will not only provide tools to current first-gen students but also ensure that future generations of their families will have the tools to be successful.